We Shine Brighter Together at RTR…

Combining over 110 years of Reform Judaism in Rockland County, Temple Beth El (Spring Valley) and Temple Beth Torah (Nyack) merged to create an even brighter entity, The Reform Temple of Rockland (RTR). Everyone comes together here – interfaith couples, LGBTQ families, the young and the not-so-young – to create our warm Jewish community. Our Worship is enriched with a love of music, filled with our gifted Cantor’s voice, our choir, and our Chai Life Rock Shabbat band. Toe tapping and hand clapping are encouraged! See for yourself why so many find our family-friendly Friday night services or educational programming so inspiring, or why our B’nei Mitzvah are just beginning their journeys, not ending them. Each of us is a Jewish light but together, we all shine brighter. Don’t wait for a holiday to drop by. Our caring clergy and congregation look forward to meeting you!

Rabbi's Sermon

From the Union For Reform Judaism / Reform Movement

Modern-Day Yenta Makes The Perfect Match On Netflix

Modern-Day Yenta Makes The Perfect Match On Netflix jemerman May 19, 2023

Arts and Culture

an image of Aleeza Ben Shalom, host of Netflix's

As someone who mostly steers clear of reality television in favor of more premium (read: snobbier) fare, I was a little hesitant to check out Netflix’s new reality series, "Jewish Matchmaking."

Together At Sinai: Four Conversion Stories

Together At Sinai: Four Conversion Stories jemerman May 18, 2023

Conversion

On Shavuot, many of us study the Book of Ruth. Lauded by Rabbinic tradition as a righteous convert, Ruth’s story continues to resonate with the experiences of many Jews-by-choice today.

In The Wilderness: Numbers in Haiku

In The Wilderness: Numbers in Haiku jemerman May 10, 2023

These Haikus focus on weekly Torah portions.

Crossing Over

Crossing Over jemerman May 9, 2023

Conversion

Josh Rodriguez and his wife Laurie taking a selfie in front of their house

I’m feeling very peaceful today. I went to the mikvah this morning. I was a little nervous, just because official rites of passage can be a little scary. But I knew everyone was going to be super nice and supportive (and they were!).